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First Look: Cuthill’s Backyard

Jun 19th 2012

If you haven’t checked out Cuthill’s Backyard (511 NE 4thSt., 561/740-0399) a little slice of laid-back Keys fun ‘n’ funkiness in an obscure, semi-industrial location in Boynton Beach, all I can say is you’re missing out on one of the coolest dining and drinking spots in all of South Florida.

My wife and I stopped by for lunch the other day, and it was just like being back in the Keys. . . just a little nicer. Everything is outdoors, except the bathrooms, of course. Behind a fence just off North Fed is a big tiki hut bar, lots of chunky-funky wood tables and benches under canvas umbrellas, and a silver Airstream trailer that serves as the kitchen.

The food is basic bar fare. . . but bar fare done right. Burgers, sliders, fish tacos, wings, plus some nice touches like slices of sesame seed-crusted seared-raw tuna draped over Asian slaw, shrimp and grits, braised pork shoulder and the best smoked fish dip this side of Key West. The deal is, this isn’t frozen and pre-made stuff off the Sysco truck, but fresh fish brought in daily, quality meats and produce.

There’s a great selection of craft beers—about two dozen on tap (including the excellent Southern Saison from Due South Brewery just across I-95) and another two dozen by the bottle. You don’t want to miss this place. It’s about as much fun as you can have with a cold beer and your clothes on.

But wait, there’s more. Partners Jim Hall, Brendan Griffin and Brad Costa already have two more ventures in the works.

First is an American bistro, a bit more upscale and white tablecloth-y than Cuthill’s, to go into a building across the street, fronting North Federal Highway, that’s now undergoing reno. No name yet but look for a menu of steaks and chops and all-America faves, with a debut date of sometime next year. The trio is also looking to install a wine bar in a next door property. You can bet that will be pretty cool too.